Is a 5.0 in an 86 230CC underpowered?

[shilo]

I'm also considering this boat and a person who has owned and owns sea rays told me that this boat is underpowered with the 5.0. He said once you get 4 or 5 people on board the boat is a dog. What do you think?

 

[ghuskin]

Underpowered 5.0?

Not sure of your boat. I just bought an '83 225 CC with a 228 hp Merc. when loaded with people and a full tank of gas, it takes a while to get on plane. With a half-tank of fuel, my son and myself, she does fine. Your 5.0 may be 260hp and would have better performance. Also, the fuel capacity could make a difference. My boat is 70 gal., yours may be 50 gal.

Keep in mind that this is not a performance boat.

Gregg

 

[njmello]

I have a '76 21' SeaRay Cuddy w/260hp I/O (350 Chev.) and with a full fuel tank and 4 adults on board (and all the fishing gear and coolers, etc.) I have no problem getting on plane with a 14.5 X 19p prop. Rarely use WOT and she'll still get going to 35+ mph cruising. Fuel consumption has always been moderate except long runs at high throttle. Engine does seem to like more fuel at high RPMs.

 

[gerryb]

Simple math to get the answer. Divide your boat's weight by the horsepower of the engine you are looking at. Any result below 20 lbs per HP will be very sufficient, assuming clean hull, properly running motor and clean running gear.